What does the future hold for LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook?

So—the harsh realities of player career mortality and the NFL's business side have struck again. A couple of the most beloved players of two different franchises have been unceremoniously released less than 24 hours apart.

First, LaDainian Tomlinson was released by the San Diego Chargers on Monday. Then, before Philly fans could spend too much time wondering how Bolts fans might be feeling, the Eagles followed suit with a similar announcement about Brian Westbrook.

For most every Eagles fan, even if they saw it coming, yesterday was still a very sad day. Westbrook has been a class act and surely one of the most electrifying and accomplished players who has ever worn an Eagles uniform.

In the space of one year, Birds fans have seen two of the team's all-time greats and most popular players walk out the door. Last February, of course, it was Brian Dawkins trading in his midnight green attire for orange and blue. And, now, it is Westbrook who is leaving with destination unknown.

Twelve months later, the wounds of Dawkins exit have yet to heal, especially since they have been frequently brushed open by seeing him continue to flourish in Denver while the obvious void left behind was painfully exposed.

Although the circumstances are different, Philly faithful will surely feel a similar emptiness as their team takes the field when the curtain goes up on next year's NFL season and "Westy" is nowhere to be found.

On the left coast, Chargers fans must be feeling much the same way as they wave goodbye to the best running back in its team history—by a long shot. LT is also one of the most accomplished players in NFL history as well, currently standing third all-time in touchdowns behind Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith, and eighth in rushing with 12,490 yards.

Both running backs share many similarities, which will surely be scrutinized around the league as personnel departments evaluate whether each might be a worthy addition to their own club.

The market for 30+ year old players at their position has historically been limited.

If, and where, each player lands with another club will be highly dependent upon individual circumstances, assessment of physical condition, finances, and personal preference.

The following is a breakdown to assess the situation and perhaps get a glimpse of what the future might hold for these two.

A look back at greatness.

Tomlinson came into the league in 2001 and Westbrook a year later, but followed different paths. LT immediately jumped into a featured back role that lasted throughout his career while Westbrook transitioned from a shared role over the first half of his career.

Additionally, Tomlinson stayed injury free for the majority of his career and racked up the more prolific numbers. LT has been recognized with three All-Pro selections, five Pro Bowls and a plethora of MVP/Player of the Year awards for his 2006 season.

Westbrook has made two Pro Bowl appearances and was elected to the All-Pro Team in 2007. Although his numbers are somewhat modest in comparison to LT, Eagles fans can attest that his contributions were similarly huge.

Tomlinson Rushing: 2,880-12,490 yards, 4.3 avg , 138 TD

Receiving: 530-3,955 yards, 7.5 avg, 15 TD

Combined: 16,445 yards, 153 TD

Westbrook Rushing: 1,308-5,995 yards, 4.6 avg, 37 TD

Receiving: 426-3,790 yards, 8.9 avg, 29 TD

Combined: 9,785 yards, 68 TD

What's left in the tank?

After enjoying spectacular seasons in 2007, both players similarly experienced a drop off in productivity the next year due to injuries. It became more pronounced in 2009 as their numbers markedly declined again.

In Tomlinson's case, he injured his toe and has never seemed to regain his trademark explosiveness. The most telling indicator was his career low 3.3 yards per carry in 2009, leading to by far his lowest rushing output at 730 yards.

The situation was a little bit different for Westbrook, though. He continued to battle chronic knee and ankle injuries; however, what kept him off the field were a pair of concussions. But, when he did get on the field, he often flashed the same darting, elusive style that made him one of the NFL's best players a couple seasons earlier.

Who might be interested?

Considering each player's injury history over the past two years, declining productivity, and age, it is doubtful that any team would consider either of them as a featured back. However, since both players have been highly effective running screens and circling out of the backfield throughout their careers, they might be attractive in a specialty back role.

Economics surely come into play as teams would only be interested if the contractual terms matched the more limited role. It remains to be seen whether these former All-Pro's are willing to accept a greatly reduced base salary, perhaps with some performance bonuses.

My suspicion is that Tomlinson would be more inclined to accept those terms due to his desire to win a Super Bowl, the urge to show he still can play, and his previous earnings. For Westbrook, he will need to weigh whether it is worth the risk of future head trauma, but the right opportunity with a championship contender might be enough of a carrot.

The list of potential suitors would be pretty similar, although Westbrook might only consider a viable Super Bowl contender or a team with a personal connection. LT might be additionally enticed by the chance for more touches.

Naming names.

Unfortunately, in both cases the inability to simply renegotiate a contract similar to what is likely to be offered by another club would have been a win/win; however, that is generally a rare occurrence without the benefit of market value validation and perhaps as each side plays a game of "chicken."

But, it would seem that the Chargers could use a Westbrook and the Eagles could now use a Tomlinson in this newly defined role. Could each involved team be interested in the other's former player?

Here are some possibilities for each player:

Tomlinson

1. Denver Broncos- They collect running backs, don't they?

2. Washington Redskins- Shanahan might like to get him on his side for once.

3. Minnesota Vikings- May need a replacement for Chester Taylor.

4. Seattle Seahawks- Could make a good combo with Justin Forsett.

5. Houston Texans- Could use some star power and LT's skills.

6. Philadelphia Eagles- He could run the Wildcat and spell LeSean McCoy.

7. New England Patriots- Belichick loves veteran runners who can catch.

Westbrook

1. Any team that would acquire Donovan McNabb.

2. Minnesota Vikings- May need a replacement for Chester Taylor.

3. Green Bay Packers- Great addition to spell Ryan Grant.

4. Washington Redskins- As long as his brother is on the roster.

5. Denver Bronocs- Reunite with good friend Dawk?

6. San Diego Chargers- Rivers needs a veteran to run screens.

7. New England Patriots- Belichick loves veteran runners who can catch.

How would they fit?

Tomlinson could surely fit in a back-up role, particularly behind a bigger primary ball carrier. In San Diego, the mercurial Darren Sproles served as the third down back, but LT could easily fit into that type of role. And, in this age of Wildcat fascination, his 7 passing TD's might grab the attention of offensive coordinators.

Switching to a third down specialty back role would be a remarkably easy transition for Westbrook as he would be returning to his NFL roots. Besides being a proficient blocker, with a reduced role taking pressure off his knees and ankles, Westbrook could still be one of the best screen receivers in the league.

What will teams consider?

Cost/benefit and risk/reward will be the two critical elements. Neither would come without risk, so structuring a deal that limits fixed costs and pays for performance seems to be almost a necessity.

In the case of Westbrook, medical clearance regarding any ongoing neurological issues is a deal breaker. With increased scrutiny and concern about the ongoing well being of players with multiple head traumas, some teams might opt not to put themselves in a weekly position of making such decision.

Another factor relates to the veteran presence and leadership each would bring to their new team. Both players have strong track records in this regard.

Which player has more value now?

This is really a tough call and there is no clear answer. Tomlinson is the safer bet, but Westbrook has the bigger upside.

The former Charger was reportedly healthy in 2009, yet clearly never displayed the same ability to dart through creases and explode into open spaces. On the other hand, he was on the field much more throughout the season and does not have ongoing injury concerns.

This opposite is true of Westbrook. His last touch was a 27-yard catch and run in the Wild Card game that evoked memories of the 2007 version of the former Eagle. When he got on the field, he often seemed to still have his signature wiggle and elusiveness.

But, everyone knows that he is one bad hit away from retirement. Another concussion and he might well call it a career. Also, his knee is balky and both ankles are less than 100 percent.

The bottom line is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. My guess is both will sign on with other teams.

LT will last as long as he is productive in his given role. Westy will last as long as his body is willing.

New York Jets- San Diego Chargers: AFC Divisional Playoff Preview

Part 3 (see Part 2 for coverage of Sunday's Cowboys-Vikings game)

The New York Jets land in San Diego full of confidence that they can leave with a win and advance further in the postseason. First year head coach Rex Ryan has players believing that they have peaked at the right time and a winning combination capable of taking down any of its potential opponents.

In a twist of irony, the Jets do most of their best work on the ground and thwart the opposition's attempts at moving through the air with the best cover corner in the business. With a rookie quarterback guiding the offense, Ryan's game plan is devised around its strong running game and top ranked defensive unit, which has long been a winning formula in the NFL postseason.

Darrelle Revis has rapidly gained well deserved recognition throughout the league one game at a time as he has unfailingly shut down the best wide receivers on each opponent. He is indiscriminate in his work, sending home upstarts, Pro Bowlers and All-Pro's alike with the same frustration and similar dismal numbers.

Revis' focus today will likely be on San Diego's Vincent Jackson, who has been quarterback Philip Rivers' favorite target amongst his wide receivers. A bit of encouraging news for the Chargers, though, is that Rivers spreads the ball around and their passing game is not predicated on one star receiver.

Tight end Antonio Gates was San Diego's leading pass catcher, accumulating 79 receptions and 1,157 yards. With Revis hawking Jackson, expect Rivers to set his sights on Gates all day long. He will also likely look to get the ball to running backs Ladainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles in space to take advantage of their explosiveness. Rivers has been an under-rated star performer who demonstrates great resourcefulness, so he will likely find a way to move the ball and get some points on the board.

While the Jets finished first in pass defense by a wide margin, they were somewhat mortal in terms of run defense. Their #8 ranking could be a bit of an illusion, though, as teams often chose to keep the ball on the ground due to their inability to get anything going through the air. Regardless, gone are the days of running the football being a Chargers strength. Tomlinson rushed for less than 800 yards and averaged but 3.3 yards per carry.

When the Jets have the ball, they will rely on their top ranked running game and keep the reigns on QB Mark Sanchez. Thomas Jones, who has been battling a bruised knee, is their veteran stalwart having rushed for more than 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns during the regular season. With Jones slowed by injury last week, rookie Shonn Greene amassed 135 yards on the ground to lead the Jets to victory over the Bengals in the Wild Card game.

This is a great match-up for New York as the Chargers struggle mightily to defend the run, yielding 4.5 yards per carry. It could be a long day for San Diego if their offense can not keep their defense off the field, because Ryan will surely be looking to exploit this mismatch. The Chargers will undoubtedly stack defenders in the box to stop the run and force Sanchez to beat them through the air. The Bolts could conceivably benefit, though, from a week of rest and have an edge over a Jets offensive line that played last week and had to travel cross country.

New York was almost dead last in passing, but that largely relates to frequency. As he did a week ago, Sanchez has proven that he can be the good steward that Ryan desires by protecting the ball and making big throws when called upon.

This game will be closer than many expect considering that San Diego enters the postseason as the hottest team in football. The match-ups and a Jets team believing in themselves will take this to the wire, but Philip Rivers will find a way to pull this one out.

Jets 16

Chargers 17

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NFL Power Rankings Top 15 Wild Card Weekend

The regular season ended with some playoff teams peaking while others limped into the post season. Both the Saints and Colts ended what had been perfect seasons with losses, while the Chargers ran the table with 11 straight wins. As a result, the Bolts have moved to the top of our rankings while the other two wonder whether they can turn things around in the playoffs.

The Vikings ended their 3-game losing skein with the dismantling of a disinterested New York Giants team. Along the way, they regained the NFC's #2 seed when Dallas whitewashed an Eagles team that crashed and burned. Accordingly, the Vikings get a week of rest and then a divisional round playoff game in the Metrodome, while the Eagles need to travel back to "Big D" for a "do over."

The Patriots, Cardinals and Bengals all decided to take the safe route with little to gain. Unfortunately the Patriots lost the NFL's leading receiver when Wes Welker tore the ligaments in his knee. The Ravens and Jets took care of business to hold onto their AFC wild card slots.

The teams that are playing the best heading into the playoffs are the Chargers, Packers and Cowboys. As the Cardinals proved last year, though, that is not always the best predictor of post season success. While the Colts and Chargers appear to be the clear favorites in the AFC, it is conceivable that any of the 6 NFC teams could reach the Super Bowl.

1. Chargers (13-3)- Could be team to beat after 11 straight wins
2. Colts (14-2)- Lost momentum and disappointed players
3. Saints (13-3)-Confidence down heading into playoffs
4. Packers (11-5)-Played to win and keep momentum
5. Vikings (12-4)- Giant destruction helps regain #2 seed
6. Cowboys(11-5)-Feeling great as NFC East champs
7. Eagles (11-5)-Total meltdown in Dallas, set for "do over"
8. Patriots (10-6)-Loss of Welker will be very costly
9. Cardinals (10-6)-Starters back might not be enough for Pack
10. Ravens (9-7)- Have ingredients to be scary in playoffs
11. Jets (9-7)- Great defense and good running game
12. Bengals (10-6)- Rolled over in finale, but still strong D
13. Steelers (9-7)- Pulled out another, but too little, too late
14. Texans (9-7)- First winning season, but no post season
15. Falcons (9-7)- Strong finish to disappointing season

NFL Power Rankings-Top 15....Week 16

While one team fell from the undefeated ranks, and another continued in its path of perfection, two teams furthered their upward ascension. The San Diego Chargers doubled down, adding two more wins to extend its winning streak to 10. In the NFC, the Eagles ran their streak to 5, clinching a playoff berth along the way.

The New Orleans Saints were soundly defeated by a Dallas Cowboys team motivated to change its recent late season trend of futility. Along the way, they provided a glimmer of hope to other NFC hopefuls by making the Saints look a little less invincible. The win also restored faith amongst its fan base and positioned the Cowboys for a shot at winning the NFC East if they can win out.

Besides the Saints, the Vikings came back to the pack as well after falling badly for the second time in three games. This time they lost to a struggling Panthers team and had problems on both sides of the ball. Additonal warning alarms were sounded when an ongoing tension between Brett Favre and Brad Childress became publicized after the contest. Although both parties claim to have things patched up, the underlying power tug-o-war surely could surface as the team heads into a post season that now seems a little more treacherous.

The rest of the NFC hopefuls include Arizona, Green Bay and the surging New York Giants. With memories of last year's post season run still present in many minds, the Cardinals can not be discounted despite a disappointingly inconsistent season. Although they lost to the Steelers on the final play in possibly the game of the year, the Packers have the ingredients to be a force in the playoffs. And, many are still not writing off the Giants who have looked unstoppable on offense for the 2 1/2 games.

In the AFC, the undefeated Colts appear poised to run the table depenedent upon their level of caution. They surely are keeping their eyes on the Chargers, who have been their nemisis in years past. None of the other AFC teams appear to have the consistency or balance to threaten either team.

1. Colts (14-0)- Poised for undefeated season if regulars play
2. Saints (13-1)-Cowboys needed the game a little more
3. Chargers (12-3)- Two more wins makes 10 straight
4. Vikings (11-3)-Lost 2 of 3 with Favre and Childress feuding
5. Eagles (10-4)-Offense leads team to 5th straight win
6. Packers (9-5)-Looking strong despite Steelers last gasp win
7. Cowboys(9-5)-Confidence soaring after big win in N'Awlins
8. Bengals (9-5)- Last second loss pales to loss of Henry
9. Cardinals (9-5)-Clinched division, but still up and down
10. Giants (8-6)-Offense rolling keeps them as media darlings
11. Patriots (9-5)-Playoff worthy, but have holes
12. Ravens (8-6)- 79-10 past two weeks, is it them or opponent
13. Broncos (8-6)-Hanging on for playoff spot after 6-0 start
14. Dolphins (7-7)- Tough loss, but still in contention
15. Jacksonville (7-7)-Two tough losses could put them out of race

NFL Power Rankings Top 15 Week 15

As the NFL heads into the final weeks of the regular season, teams are starting to separate themselves as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. There are two clear powers in each conference led by the two remaining undefeated teams. The Vikings still have the best overall talent and balance throughout their team, but are ranked 3rd because they have not been able to translate that into victory each and every week. Right behind those three teams are the hard charging Lightning Bolts, who registered their 8th consecutive win and could run the table in their remaining regular season games.

The Colts had a productive 5 days winning twice to preserve their perfect season. The extra rest and remaining schedule would favor a 16-0 finish, but it will likely depend on how much first year coach Jim Caldwell plays his regulars now that they have clinched home field advantage.

In the NFC, the Saints face their biggest challenge to regular season perfection this evening when they host the Dallas Cowboys. Although they have dropped the past two games to fall into second place in the NFC East, they head to New Orleans with both a feeling of desperation and a belief they can win. Conversely, the Saints have less urgency to win, but they still feel the push from Minnesota. The 'Boys also have the extra motivation of proving critics wrong about their tendency to fold late in the season over the past dozen seasons.

The next three teams in the rankings would appear to be the only true remaining Super Bowl contenders, but still appear to have some holes. The Packers, Eagles and possibly the Bengals could potentially make some noise in the post season and are capable of knocking off the favorites. Green Bay has come together defensively, led by the spectacular play of Charles Woodson and a strong linebacker corps. Additionally, Aaron Rodgers continues to mature into a top flight quarterback.

The Eagles went to the Meadowlands last Sunday Night for a rematch with the Giants and the NFC East lead on the line. Although the NBC pundits all predictably predicted that the Giants would prevail, the Eagles seized control early and scored at will to win a shoot out. The Donovan McNabb led offense keeps getting better, but the key to the team's hopes will be whether they can pull the inconsistent defense up to a similar level of play. No team will want to face the Eagles prolific offense and attacking defense in the playoffs.

The Vikings easily handled the upstart Bengals last Sunday, whose offense is struggling a bit. After a hot start, Carson Palmer's spotty play over the past several weeks has observers wondering if he is injured. The defense was torched for 30 points by the Vikes, but they have been strength most of the year.

The Cardinals, Broncos and Cowboys all lost in Week 14 and continue to hang on the fringes. They are playoff caliber teams, but appear too bi-polar to make a run for the Super Bowl. Of course, Arizona looked that way a year ago and then came within one last minute spectacular catch of winning it all. They can be scary on both sides of the ball, but catching lightning in a bottle two years in row is probably too much to ask, though.

The remaining teams in the Top 15 are hanging on by a whisker and might need to win out. Based on their schedules, the Ravens and Giants appear to have the best shot at landing the final Wild Card spot in their respective conference. With Eli Manning and Brandon Jacobs playing better, and the Giants last game coming against a Vikings team that will likely be meaningless for them, a 10-6 record appears probable.

1. Saints (13-0)-Biggest remaining obstacle tonight vs 'Boys
2. Colts (14-0)- 2 wins in 5 days has them 2 from perfect
3. Vikings (11-2)-Rebound with dominating win over Bengals
4. Chargers (10-3)- 8th straight win, could run the table
5. Packers (9-4)-They're for real, but face desperate Steelers
6. Eagles (9-4)-Win shoot out in Jersey to take 1st place
7. Bengals (9-4)- Crushed by Vikes, now face Bolts
8. Cardinals (8-5)-Same old story of up and down play
9. Broncos (8-5)-Still looking like a 10 win team
10. Cowboys(8-5)-So far another December to forget
11. Patriots (8-5)-Remain perfect at home, but have issues
12. Giants (7-6)-Media can't hype them to 1st place in NFC East
13. Dolphins (7-6)- Hanging in race despite losing QB and top RB
14. Ravens (7-6)-Have potential, but can't find any consistency
15. Titans (6-7)-Remember the Titans, they could still sneak in
16. Jacksonville (7-7)-Two tough losses could put them out of race

NFL Power Rankings Top 15 Week 14

The Saints and Colts keep on rolling along with their respective undefeated seasons. Last week, the Saints escaped with a win after being beneficiaries of some good fortune just as the Colts have done a couple weeks this season. As Drew Brees pointed out after the game, the Saints have found themselves on the opposite side when luck seemed to go the other way, but it has been all good in this magical season. Things could continue to break their way with a favorable schedule the rest of the way, but hosting Dallas next week will surely be circled on their calendars.

Indianapolis veered from their recent script when they took an early lead and maintained it throughout the game to defeat the surging Titans. The next two games appear to be their biggest obstacles to complete the regular season without a loss as they host Denver and then travel to a face an improving Jacksonville team. Tennessee dropped to 5-7, but based on their level of play over the past 6 weeks, remain in our Top 15.

Just when the Vikings were looking like a powerhouse, they came up flat against the Cardinals. After yielding more than 500 yards in their previous game, Arizona's Jekyl and Hyde defense looked very stout versus a very potent Vikings offense. With a comfortable two game lead and the tie breaker over the Packers as well as a diminishing chance to catch New Orleans, the Vikings could very well find themselves resting players for the playoffs. This could prove to be more beneficial to the team than gaining home field advantage with the 40 year old Brett Favre behind center.

The Chargers racked up their 7th straight win to stay a game in front of the Broncos in the AFC West. Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates and Vincent Jackson have San Diego rolling up the points and they now are the NFL's 3rd highest scoring offense. Denver exploded for 44 points after struggling offensively in the middle of the season and still hope to catch the Chargers with a little help. The other top AFC continues to be the Bengals, who have now opened a 3 game lead over the Ravens. The Super Bowl defending champion Steelers have fallen off the map at 6-7 after losses to the lowly Raiders and Browns in successive weeks.

Aaron Rodgers continues to play like his old mentor and, along with an emerging defense, has the Packers surging. They currently hold the first Wild Card spot in the NFC and are playing like a lock for the post season. The Cowboys seemed to outplay the Giants, but found themselves on the losing end. Just when the Giants were looking dead in the water, they found a way to win and keep themselves in contention.

The Eagles, of course, registered their 3rd consecutive win to pull even with the Cowboys at 8-4 and now control their own destiny in the NFC East. The return of several players as well as the improving prognosis on Brian Westbrook and Kevin Curtis put them in position for another successful season end despite a difficult schedule.

The Patriots find themselves in unfamiliar territory, losing games they almost always had won throughout the decade. The Jaquars keep winning to hang onto playoff hopes while the Ravens find themselves just hanging on, period.

1. Saints (12-0)-Capitalize on good fortune in come from behind win
2. Colts (12-0)- Eliminate the drama and clinch division
3. Vikings (10-2)-Come up flat against Cardinals
4. Chargers (9-3)- 7th straight win keeps them out front in West
5. Bengals (9-3)- Ride the defense to 3 game division lead
6. Packers (8-4)-Another impressive win against Ravens
7. Eagles (8-4)-Thinking division title with easy win, mending players
8. Cardinals (8-4)-Shut down rampaging Vikings
9. Broncos (8-4)-Offense gets rolling again, thinking playoffs
10. Cowboys(8-4)-Outplay Giants, but lose game
11. Patriots (7-5)-Defense struggling and no magic from Brady
12. Giants (7-5)-Suddenly get life and knock off Cowboys
13. Jacksonville (7-5)-Keep on coming, take big win vs Texans
14. Ravens (6-6)-Packers too much, Flacco too little
15. Titans (5-7)-Not quite ready for prime time, lose to Colts

Depleted Eagles Don't Have Enough to Overcome Chargers

Using a make shift line-up due to the unavailability of many players, the Eagles did not have quite enough to get by the San Diego Chargers, losing 31-23. They wasted opportunities on offense and could muster very little resistance on defense, letting what seemed to be yet another winnable game get away. Despite fielding a team with many key players missing parts or all of the game, the Eagles could have come away with a victory, but the same continuing weaknesses ultimately proved to be their undoing.

The Eagles made the trip to the west coast knowing that they would be less than full strength, especially on defense. This past week, Ellis Hobbs was lost for the season to a neck injury, Joselio Hanson was suspended for four games, and Akeem Jordan joined Omar Gaither and Stewart Bradley as injured linebackers. This situation was compounded further when tackle Jason Peters and Quintin Demps were unable to suit up, and then Brian Westbrook and Sheldon Brown came out after the first half due to injury. Westbrook suffered another concussion, making for a very serious situation that could be potentially season or career threatening. DeSean Jackson also sprained an ankle, but continued to play after being heavily taped.

Despite having to move players into unaccustomed positions as well as plug holes with reserves, waiver wire pick-ups and practice squad players, the Eagles made a gallant effort against a surging Chargers team that is now tied for first place in the AFC West. At the end of the day, they didn't have quite enough to pull the game out and fell victim to the same trouble spots that have plagued them throughout the year.

Clock management cost them all their timeouts in the second half and allowed the Chargers to run the clock down to preclude an Eagles comeback. A large number of penalties, including several ones wiping out big gains and undoing defensive stops, proved very costly. Once again, the defense was unable to make a stand late in the game when the Eagles needed to get the ball back and preserve time. Although used less, the Mildcat was its usual hindrance. And, the long-time tandem nemeses struck again as the Eagles could not convert on short yardage or in the red zone.

It was particularly painful when the Eagles had to settle for a 19-yard field goal in the second quarter after having first and goal at the 1. Two other trips to the red zone also resulted in short field goals, so the Eagles came away with only 9 of a possible 21 points on those opportunities, which they could not afford considering the state of the defense. One last nemesis also popped up when officials ruled that Eldra Buckley did not cross the plane of the goal line on a 3rd and 1 attempt that resulted in Akers first field goal, although it appeared that he had. Unfortunately, the Fox Sports crew was asleep along with the referees and failed to show a replay from a different angle. Also, after last week's experience with the officials not changing a spot despite visual evidence to the contrary, Andy Reid apparently figured it was a lost cause and elected not to challenge the play.

The Lighting Bolts moved the ball with relative ease the entire game against the Eagles patchwork defense. Philip Rivers completed 80% of his 25 passes, hitting a pretty much wide open Antonio Gates 7 times. With Ladainian Tomlinson struggling all year, the Chargers have been one of the worst rushing teams in the NFL, but he had his best game of the year, accumulating 96 yards and 2 TD's.

Falling behind early by a score of 14-0 and knowing that the defense was compromised, the Eagles elected to air it out in an attempt to match scores with the Chargers. It worked very well with Donovan McNabb posting his most productive game ever, throwing for 450 yards on 55 attempts. He spread the ball around to all his receivers, but Jason Avant had an extraordinary game. He went inside and out, high and low to grab 8 passes for 156 yards, looking a lot like Cardinals receiver Anquan Boldin.

Unfortunately, the prolific passing game got derailed by the Eagles inability to put the ball in the end zone, both via the air and especially on the ground. McNabb did manage touchdown passes to Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek in the 4th quarter, but earlier red zone failures had helped put them in a big hole. The game ended with McNabb making a last ditch "Hail Mary" pass into the end zone that was picked off.

Yesterday, the Eagles were undermanned, so departing without a victory can be understood. Surely, some of the failures relate to players being out of position, back-ups being called into duty or even new players altogether. Fo many Eagles fans, though, the loss stung more as they witnessed some of the same key failings that let a couple other games slip away this season. Besides the passing game, the only other bright was on the scoreboard where it read "Dallas 7, Green Bay 17."

Eagles California Dreaming

Although the state has not been a good destination so far this season, the Eagles return to California dreaming of a win despite having a depleted defense. A few weeks ago the Eagles suffered an unlikely defeat at the hands of the Oakland Raiders, and now head to the more inviting San Diego area to face a much tougher Chargers team.

Both team's have identical 5-3 records at the season's mid-point. Both team's have also somewhat underperformed expectations and look to develop some momentum for the second half of the season. The Chargers feature a high powered passing game and have the good fortune of facing an Eagles team that is suddenly depleted in its secondary and linebacker corps. On the positive side of the injury ledger, the Eagles should see Brian Westbrook return to the line-up.

This is an important game for the Eagles now that they have dropped a game out of first place, especially after letting last week's game get away with uninspired play and some poor decision making. The national media was looking in on the Sunday Football Night in America game and directed a great deal of criticism towards the Eagles for wasting time outs and kicking a field goal rather than going for a first down late in the game. The latter pretty much gift wrapped the contest for a Dallas team that did not seem all that impressive.

In the Cowboys game, Ellis Hobbs and Akeem Jordan went down with injuries. On Tuesday, they learned that Hobbs will be out the rest of the season with a serious neck injury and Joradn does not appear ready to return. Adding insult to injury, the team also learned that cornerback Joselio Hanson was being suspended 4 weeks for taking a weight loss pill last January. Apparently the NFL allows steroids to slide, but is taking a very firm stance on players worried about their waist lines. As a result, Sean McDermott is finding it necessary to patch a team together with practice squad players and waiver wire additions.

Andy Reid and staff will need to make a strategic decision whether they try to control the ball and keep it out of the hands of the Chargers offense, or whether they tee it up and try to outscore them. Based on the Eagles dreadful ability to consistently execute and sustain drives thus far this year, a shoot out seems to be the far better option. They would also be wise to leave the Mildcat formation and Mike Vick on the sidelines.

Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates, Vincent Jackson and Darren Sproles are likely to eat up yardage through the air and put points on the scoreboard. Running back Ladainian Tomlinson appears to be a shadow of his former self, but Sproles will likely make some big gains on draw plays and screen plays. The Chargers should also keep very busy hitting Gates in the seams and Jackson up high and down the field.

The Eagles will need Donovan McNabb to come out sharp and make good use of the weapons around him. Last week his throwing accuracy was a little off and the team could not get their speed receivers open for some quick strikes. They were forced to work underneath, where their lack of consistency proved to be their undoing. It will be critical for them to get DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin down the field for some big plays if they want any hope of keeping pace with the Lightning Bolts. McNabb will likely lean heavily on Brent Celek since the Chargers have not been particularly adept at covering tight ends and could very well find him a couple times in the end zone. If so, lets hope the Eagles lose the Captain Morgan routine that gives the opponent great field position afterwards.

Westbrook and LeSean McCoy should help to keep the Chargers defense respecting the run, but it remains to be seen whether the former will be at full strength or whether he can stay healthy for an entire game. The Bolts' defense continues to be vulnerable, so the Birds should be able put up points themselves if they execute.

Although the same was said last week, expect to see a high scoring contest that will go down to the wire. Unfortunately, the Chargers have been far more successful than the Eagles in these situations, which does not bode well for the Birds.

Chargers 34

Eagles 31